* The 2026 intake introduces a comprehensive curriculum designed to balance theoretical knowledge with practical immersion
* The fully accredited nine-month programme is delivered through a hybrid format, combining interactive online learning with intensive physical in-person training
By Duncan Mlanjira
MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF), the Pan-African film and television training institution, has opened applications for its 2026 intake, whose deadline closes on February 27, 2026.
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In a statement from South African, the industry-leading network of academies invites all African graduates who aspire to become directors, filmmakers, scriptwriters, producers and storytellers to now apply for the fully-funded courses.
“Having recently become part of CANAL+, MultiChoice has re-dedicated itself to bringing compelling programming to homes on our continent.
“A powerful way to do this is by empowering young people with filmmaking, production and storytelling skills. Any young Africans who dream of telling Africa’s stories can apply, to join the MultiChoice journey to give Africa a stronger voice on the world stage.”
The statement thus asks aspiring filmmakers to visit; https://multichoicetalentfactory.com/mtf-applications/index.php for more about the MTF programme requirements, adding that “the 2026 intake introduces a comprehensive curriculum designed to balance theoretical knowledge with practical immersion”.
“The fully accredited nine-month programme is delivered through a hybrid format, combining interactive online learning with intensive physical in-person training.
“With academies strategically located in Kenya, Nigeria, and Zambia, MTF offers aspiring filmmakers from 14 African countries practical training, industry exposure, and access to valuable professional networks, equipping them to succeed in a competitive entertainment landscape.”
Several Malawians have graduated from the MTF since its inception in 2018 that include Jonathan Kapumba & Chimwemwe Mkwezalamba (2019 cohort); Mphatso Makamo & Chisomo Livason (2020); Chisomo Kawaga & Asante Mbaimbai (2022), Sarah Mngwaluko & Brian Magombo (2023) and Brian Magombo — the director of Malawian drama series, Pa Mango Lodge, that is featured on GOtv’s and DStv’s Zambezi Magic.
Brian Magombo
Each intake, MTF academy brings together 60 students giving them an opportunity to reach their dreams and to unleash their potential by providing a platform that nurtures and develops talent across the continent, providing opportunities for growth, networking and success in the entertainment industry.
So far the academy has trained 296 filmmakers since its inception in 2018, with over 42 movies already produced by graduates.
“During the programme, students gain insights into the business of filmmaking while learning their craft from the industry’s best minds,” says the statement. “Participants are required to produce their own movie projects, which are subsequently aired on DStv and GOtv channels — including Maisha Magic, Zambezi Magic, and Africa Magic — as well as on the streaming platform Showmax.”
The MTF further says post-graduation alumni success rates are high as most go on to work within the MultiChoice ecosystem, helping to create major African productions.
Chimwemwe Mkwezalamba and Jonathan Kapumba (2019)
“The MTF accreditation makes graduates highly sought-after, and many have launched their own ventures; to date, more than 50 production companies have been established by MTF alumni.
“MTF supports a hyperlocal content approach — an investment that empowers African people to tell African stories, this support continues to translate into international success.
“A number of MTF graduates have participated in and won numerous accolades at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), Kalasha Awards, Uganda Film Festival, and the Women in Film Awards, among others.
“In addition, alumni regularly collaborate with creatives in global spaces, including the European Film Market and the Durban FilmMart.
“The nominations and award wins further testify to the calibre of filmmakers that MTF produces individuals who can compete on a global scale by telling authentic African stories.
“The knowledge and skills imparted by MTF empowers graduates to become catalysts for economic growth and cultural enrichment in their communities.
“So why wait? Your next big opportunity is here. Apply now and start your journey!” says the statement — with emphasis that “for African creatives with dreams of a film and TV career, applying to join next year’s fully-funded MTF course could be the first step toward shaping the future of African entertainment”.
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